TOKYO and NIIGATA: So Close, So Different, So Worthwhile.
When a fantastic destination is just 70 minutes by bullet train from Tokyo, why settle for one place when you can experience the best of both worlds? Visit not just one but two of Japan’s vibrant prefectures — Niigata and Tokyo. Each destination offers unique culinary and cultural experiences, and together, they promise an unforgettable journey of discovery.
This journey begins with an encounter with Niigata sake at CONRAD TOKYO. Join Luka, a true Tokyoite, and Nina, a fresh face in Niigata, on their journey of falling in love with the awe-inspiring Japanese outdoors and cuisine. As they navigate their affection for their respective homes in Japan, you’ll find yourself resonating with their stories and forming a deeper connection with the places they explore.
🗼Tokyo’s Fast-Paced Urban Landscapes and Culinary Experiences
Despite its super-functional public transportation system, one of the best ways to explore the capital is on a bicycle. Grab a rental cycle and discover off-the-beaten-path gems like Chokeikyo, a tea room in Daikanyama, the National Art Center, Tokyo, or the Hama-rikyu Gardens, an urban green oasis with numerous rest spots and delicious treats. Climb Tokyo’s symbol, the Tokyo Tower, on foot and enjoy a mouthwatering soft serve on the top floor, and then head to namco TOKYO for an upbeat experience like no other! Grab a bowl of delicious vegan ramen in an otherworldly setting at teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM, an immersive experience of all senses. When the sun sets, find yourself warming up your heart and stomach with a splendid course dinner at the Tokyo waterfront with Symphony Cruise. From the urban to the tranquil, to its classic and modern, Tokyo is a city of contrasts and surprises!
🍶 Niigata’s Sake, Unique Tastes, and Unforgettable Scenery
Known for its gastronomy and culture of fermented foods like soy sauce, sake, and miso, Niigata, nestled along the bountiful Sea of Japan’s coastline, is a land of peaceful scenery, abundant natural resources, and rich cultural experiences. Explore the numerous long-standing shops along Bokushidori Street, such as the 300-year-old Imanari Tsukemono pickles shop, experience art in the wild at the Matsudai NOHBUTAI Field Museum, and unwind in nature at the Myoko-Kogen Visitors Center. Immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine at Sado Island, home to the splendid Iwakubi Shoryu Tanada rice paddies and the historic site of Sado Island Gold Mines, a World Cultural Heritage site. In each of these locations, you’ll discover delicious local food, sake, and breathtaking views unlike any other!